Leroy Watts, 71, of Lafayette, Indiana, passed away peacefully on Monday, September 28, 2026, at IU Hospital in Lafayette. He was born on December 31, 1954, in Hazard, Kentucky, to Gilbert and Mahala (Hadix) Watts. On July 22, 1976, he married the love of his life, Sandra Kay Hayes. Together, they shared 40 wonderful years of marriage and built a life filled with family, love, and memories.
Leroy was a collector of many things and enjoyed attending auctions, often bringing his family along for the adventure. He loved being outdoors and could frequently be found sitting on his porch watching the traffic go by. He also enjoyed watching Western movies and, most of all, spending time with his family. One of his favorite pastimes was taking his children and grandchildren to car shows, creating special memories that they will cherish for years to come. Leroy dedicated 30 years of his career to Canam Steel, where he worked his way up to become one of the company’s foremen. He took pride in his work and the many years he spent with his coworkers.
Leroy is survived by his daughter, Amber Watts; grandchildren, Leroy Drake Joslin, Axle Houghton, and AJ Houghton; brothers, Herman Watts and Danny Watts; bonus daughter, Jennifer Campbell; and many beloved great-nieces and great-nephews.
He was preceded in passing by his beloved wife, Sandy; his parents, Gilbert and Mahala Watts; seven siblings; and his bonus son, Tony Campbell.
A visitation to honor Leroy’s life will be held on Tuesday, October 6, 2026, from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. at Day & Genda Funeral Home -Bodine Chapel, in Rossville. A service celebrating Leroy’s life will be held on Wednesday, October 7, 2026, at 12:00 p.m. at Day & Genda Funeral Home -Bodine Chapel, with Pastor Guy Studebaker officiating. Burial will follow at Fair Haven Cemetery in Mulberry, Indiana. Leroy will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing him. His memory will live on through the many stories, traditions, and moments he shared with those he loved. Messages of condolence and memories of Leroy may be shared at www.dayandgenda.com.